Best supporting actress is Patricia Arquette.

The character: Arquette plays Olivia Evans, the struggling, yet deeply loving mother to Mason, played by Ellar Coltrane, and Samantha, played by Lorelei Linklater.

Oscar record: This is Arquette's first Oscar nomination.

The critics said: "The performances are nicely understated. Coltrane's laid back acting style contributed greatly to the film's truthfulness. Arquette's naturalistic approach gave the movie its heart and soul. She repeatedly fails in her personal relationships, but not with her children. They survive because of her soul-searching and good intentions." Paul Chambers, Movie Chambers